Brittney Phillips Reflects on SNMA Accomplishments and What the Future
Holds

It is truly a bittersweet feeling to have my term come to a
close as National Chairperson. I’m really going to miss working with this board
next year and appreciate the wealth of knowledge and experiences that serving
as chair has brought me this year. I am
however, really excited to see what the new administration will bring the
organization and am confident that SNMA is left in more than capable
hands.

Serving this year during the 50th anniversary of
the SNMA and witnessing the 50th Founders Day Celebration and the I
Heart SNMA Campaign simultaneously at chapters across the nation has me still
in awe of the talents and power of our membership. I am so proud of what we
have accomplished over the last 50 years and am eager to see what comes in the
next 50.

Your board has worked hard all year to make the SNMA a
better place than when we started a year ago.
One thing we accomplished is incorporating new board training modules
into the National Leadership Institutes so that we are more prepared and better
capable to serve both now and in the future. We also are completing a series of
technological innovations, which have provided chapters with official email
addresses and will speed up the process of documentation and day-to-day
workings of the organization.

Additionally, we increased our social media presence on
Twitter, Facebook and Instagram in order to stay connected with our members
across the country. We love hearing from members and if you see any of us at
AMEC feel free to say hi and share any comments, questions, or suggestions that
you may have.

It has been a pleasure serving you this year! Enjoy AMEC and
celebrate the end of another successful administrative year!

National President Prepares SNMA to Serve a Diverse Community

"Wow, I really did it! And I think I did a decent job too!”
These are some of my thoughts during AMEC 2015.

My dream of being the National President manifested itself
three years ago during AMEC 2012 in Atlanta. I vividly recall watching the then
Board of Directors taking pictures and celebrating the completion of a
successful year. I remember seeing past National President Michael Knight being
congratulated on executing a phenomenal conference and triumphant programmatic
year. I remember thinking "Hmmm, I wonder if I could do that?” Fast forward to
the 50th Anniversary AMEC 2014 where I was so blessed to have been
installed as the "Royal President” by Princess A.K. Ocansey of Ghana. What an
experience!

As National President, I wanted to dispel the notion that
the SNMA is simply "The black people club.” At my own institution and many SNMA
chapters struggle to attract non-African American members interested in the
good work we do in advocacy, service and pipeline programs. My desire was to
use technology and social media to propel the SNMA mission to more than just
our own membership.

I am very proud of our service to the underserved and felt
more people should know about it. I wanted to celebrate the programs that were
already created and liked to think that there is a treasure chest of excellent
programming from past administrations and if I could revitalize one it would be
a testament to the work that has been done in the previous 50 years.

Lastly, I focused on SNMA’s celebration of 50 years of
diversifying the face of medicine and my administration launching SNMA into the
next 50 years. Watching SNMA’s 50th year historical review, I
considered how the organization would be remember the next 50 years. I
developed a Back 2 the Future executive agenda that would keep our mission at
the forefront. I chose the LGBT and Immigrant/Refugee population and from
another angle of marginalized groups, I couldn’t ignore the lack of minority
men in medicine. In prior administrations the Brotherhood Alliance for Science
Education (BASE) was born although only being done at a few medical schools. My
goal was for the SNMA to revisit this program, partner with the institutions
successfully running BASE to develop an updated curriculum that chapters
nationwide could implement through our pipeline initiative.

Lastly, I wanted to improve the use of social media. Our
members were not only on Facebook, but on Twitter and Instagram, but I wanted
to attract non-members, such as other organizations, potential sponsors, and
future supporters of the SNMA by displaying our work. Internally, we encouraged
the board and members to use Your Membership to create member profiles and
targeted messages were sent specific member categories. We launched the SNMA’s
Instagram page, showcasing our dedication to service on Founders Day and
national day of service where chapters shared pictures serving underserved
communities. That was great!

Lastly, I wanted to reach the membership on a more
day-to-day basis so through Twitter I have constantly engaged members about
what was going on in 160 characters or less. My @SNMANatlPrez account has
increased in followers over 12% is getting the attention of other doctors,
organizations and more members. Emphasis on marketing communications that supports
our vision has increased visibility for the SNMA. The Grand Rounds Blog has
provided the BOD and members with a sounding board to share more of their roles
and the projects.

I am so blessed for a forward thinking vision in which the
membership supported through the execution of the programs set forth this year.
Hopefully, some of the strides will continue in coming years. My goal was to
make the SNMA better than when I found it and I think it is a fair statement to
say this goal was accomplished.

Match Day, the third Friday of March, has come and gone. Many SNMA members and other graduating medical students nationwide have been match to residency programs. Below are graduating seniors who have updated the YM profile to notify us of their recent match. Congratulations and we’ll see you at AMEC 2015 in New Orleans.

SNMA Member Facility

Osasumwen Asemota Nassau University Medical Center

Ashley S. Balentine USC Anesthesiology

Bralin J. Bean Belle Glade, Florida - Family Medicine

Damian Campbell University of Texas at Austin Dell Children's Medical

Child Neurology

Nejlah M. Clark Newark Beth Israel (Emergency Medicine)

Lauren Cooper University of Chicago Medical Center

Omotore F. Eruvwetere Anesthesiology- Ochsner Health System

Shanté Hill University of South Alabama Medical Centers

Armetria Humphrey Loyola Cook County- Family Medicine

Osato I. Iyamu Yale Internal Medicine Primary Care

Nicole M. Jackson Boston University Medical Center - Family Medicine

Stephanie E. Kuntz Orange Regional Medical Center-Middletown, NY

Ebony M. McKinnies LSU SOM New Orleans- Neurology

Alicia Morehead-Gee University of California San Francisco

Rose A. Parks Crozer-Keystone Health System

Marc Parris Anesthesia & Pediatrics, University of California, Irvine

H. Westley Phillips Neurosurgery-New York University

Tricia Prince M.S. PM&R

Jjais Richards Loyola Pediatrics Residency Program

Topaz Sampson Baylor Hospital (Houston)

Rodrick L. Stewart University of Pittsburgh Medical Center

Shadyside Hospital Family Medicine

Tulani K. Washington-Plaskett Morehouse School of Medicine

George S. Yankey Duke University Medical Center

If you have NOT let us about your match, simply go into Your Membership (YM) and update your profile. The match option is near the bottom of your profile. An updated match list will be circulated following AMEC 2015.

Look for upcoming “Grand Rounds” containing more information about member benefits, SNMA programs, alumni activities and much more. If you have an idea for “Grand Rounds,” email marketing@snma.org.

One of my most poignant memories during medical school came one evening as I was studying for a neurology exam. By far one of the most challenging courses for me that semester, I had scored poorly on the midterm. In fact, I flat out failed. At that devastating moment in my academic career, I questioned my intelligence. Was I even smart enough to be in medical school? Did I belong here? Had I made the wrong decision? What was I doing wrong?

I had made a few mediocre grades in the past, but usually anything less than a solid B required reinforcements—study groups, tutors, whatever it took. As I sat at my table looking down at piles of notes, highlighters, diagrams and slides, I had no idea where to start and wanted to give up.

Then I thought, if I quit what will I do about SNMA? I was the chapter president. I had to go to the annual conference, right? Yes, and no. As I sat there wallowing in self-pity, I gave myself a severe reality check. This journey was not about me. It was about all the giants on whose shoulders I was standing, about the sacrifices that my parents and grandparents made for me to be there. It was about all the people who were definitely smarter than me,but weren’t afforded the opportunity to attend medical school. It was about making a commitment to the students behind me, to be able to share my story of how to persevere when times get rough. It was about finishing the course so I could be the voice of the silenced and the ignored.

I was SNMA.I am SNMA. So I, made a cup of coffee, picked up my highlighters and decided to pass the next test, and the next one, and the one after that. For me, SNMA reminded me of my purpose.

I have wanted to be a doctor since I was little, seven to be exact. I dreamt of being the kind of doctor that took care of babies, which at the time I thought meant I would be a pediatrician. Who knew, instead I would find the road to obstetrics and gynecology. I am currently practicing with a hospital-based group near Norristown, PA and I have served as a Professional Board Member for SNMA for the past four years. I knew SNMA would be a significant part of my life as soon as I stepped into my first meeting. The leaders modeled the medical student and rising physician that I wanted to be.

SNMA proved to be pivotal in all aspects of my training and I attempted to participate on all levels, local, regional and national. I served as chapter president, assistant regional director and on the national membership committee. We were greatly honored to host the regional conference at my home institution during my fourth year and I knew then it would only be a matter of time before I returned to serve the organization in a professional capacity.

AMEC is just around the corner, April 1-5 in New Orleans. Don’t miss your opportunity to attend 2015 AMEC and stay active with SNMA. Sunday, March 8th is the deadline for online registration, so register today!!!To get the AMEC group discount rate at The Hyatt Regency Hotel in New Orleans, make your hotel reservation by March 6th.

Look for upcoming “Grand Rounds” containing more information about member benefits, SNMA programs, alumni activities and much more. If you have an idea for “Grand Rounds,” email marketing@snma.org.

If you have registered for SNMA’s 2015 Annual Medical Education Conference (AMEC), then I look forward to seeing you there. If you are still waiting and deciding if you should register or not, let me give you several reasons why you should waste no more time and register. SNMA is the nation’s oldest and largest student organization dedicated to addressing the needs of underrepresented communities, supporting the nations current and future physicians, and increasing the number of clinically excellent, culturally competent, and socially conscious physicians. Here are a few reasons why you should attend AMEC 2015.

Reason 1–AMEC is the largest gathering of minority premeds, medical students, residents, and physicians in the United States. This is an opportunity to meet many of your colleagues that are working to become the next generation of great physicians. Both medical schools and residency programs are coming to AMEC to recruit the talented students of SNMA.

Reason 2–Although AMEC is the largest gathering of minority premeds, medical students and physicians, what is even more impressive is what happens at the conference. As its name states, AMEC is about education. Inspirational speakers from across the nation come to impart their knowledge of medicine, leadership, advocacy and research to name a few topics. Notable speakers have included Dr. David Satcher and Dr. Levi Watkins and students have always been inspired to learn from them. Keep an eye on the www.snma.org for the preliminary conference program to be posted with highlights of this year’s conference.

Reason 3–Students will have an opportunity to make decisions about the future of the organization through the House of Delegates (HOD). While HOD only meets once a year, it is the highest governing body of the organization and the Board of Directors (BOD) answers directly to the HOD. It is in this arena that students can ask questions of the SNMA officers and learn more about what it means to be an officer. Additionally, the HOD will elect members of the next SNMA administration including the president, vice president and professional board members. These members will continue to work during the year on your behalf to bring SNMA members extraordinary programing.

Reason 4–The last reason why you should register for the conference is that the people you meet will not only become colleagues, but they will become your family. I have great friends across the country that I can contact to discuss medical school, residency, and beyond; I owe that to SNMA.

I look forward to seeing them again at this year’s AMEC. If you see me at conference, stop and say hello, I would love to meet you or take a moment to chat with a friend.

Don't forget that the deadline to register for the 2015 AMEC in New Orleans is Saturday February 28th. So register today at: http://www.snma.org/amec.php. Late fees will begin on March 1 and the the last day for online registration is March 8th. To ensure the AMEC group discount rate at The Hyatt Regency Hotel, make your reservation by March 6th.

Look for upcoming “Grand Rounds” containing more information about member benefits, SNMA programs, alumni activities and much more. If you have an idea for “Grand Rounds,” email marketing@snma.org.

The deadline to register for the SNMA’s annual conference, AMEC, in New Orleans has been extended to Saturday February 28th. So register today! Late fees will begin on March 1 and the the last day for online AMEC registration is March 8th.

To ensure the AMEC group discount rate at The Hyatt Regency Hotel, make your reservation by March 6th.

This year’s conference has something for everyone – renowned speakers, medical education, exhibits, community service, mentoring, networking and lot of fun. Click here to view the 2015 AMEC video. “Unsilencing the Unheard and the Underserved” is the AMEC 2015 theme that will explore the health disparities of LBGT, immigrant/refugee health, and the lack of minority men entering the field of medicine that has reached a crisis level.

Look for upcoming “Grand Rounds” containing more information about member benefits, SNMA programs, alumni activities and much more. If you have an idea for “Grand Rounds,” email marketing@snma.org.

SNMA’s annual conference, AMEC, is Just Around the Corner on April 1-5 in New Orleans. This year’s conference has something for everyone – renowned speakers, medical education, exhibits, community service, mentoring, networking and lot of fun. Click here to view the 2015 AMEC video.

“Unsilencing the Unheard and the Underserved” is the AMEC 2015 theme that will explore the health disparities of LBGT, immigrant/refugee health, and the lack of minority men entering the field of medicine that has reached a crisis level.

Members are encouraged to register early to get the regular AMEC registration rates that are in effect through February 14. Otherwise, late fees begin on February 15th. The Hyatt Regency Hotel will honor the AMEC group discount rate through March 6. Remember, the last day for online AMEC registration is March 8.

If you are interested in taking the mock exams provided by Kaplan, you must sign up and pay by February 15.

Look for upcoming “Grand Rounds” containing more information about member benefits, SNMA programs, alumni activities and much more. If you have an idea for “Grand Rounds,” email marketing@snma.org.

The SNMA Chapter at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine is attracting attention. Highlighted recently in the university’s Dome magazine, the chapter is featured for its outstanding work through the Brotherhood Alliance for Science Education (BASE) program. Mentors, like Robert Wardlow who appeared in a photo on the magazine’s cover, work with young men, particularly those from nearby Paul Laurence Dunbar High School.

Johns Hopkins recognizes that the SNMA and its programs, including BASE program have been instrumental in attracting minority students and boosting enrollment. In fact, the school has seen enrollment increase by 45 percent for minority first year medical students and 38 percent among all medical students since 2009. These shifts show that the SNMA is improving outcomes among underrepresented racial and ethnic minorities, such as African-Americans, blacks, Hispanic, Latino and Native Americans.

The BASE program is devoted to encouraging minority men, while increasing the recruitment, admission and retention of young minority males in higher education and the medical fields. BASE strives to unite minority males around common goals and build relationships that foster a sense of brotherhood. The program focuses on mentorship, community service and empowerment, and motivation for worthwhile and attainable goals.

Although BASE is geared towards young men and many of its mentors are men, the JHU chapter also has female mentors among its more than 100 members, like Nancy Abu-Bonsrah, who are dedicated to helping participants reach their goals.

BASE is a part of SNMA’s Pipeline Programs that include Pre-medical Minority Enrichment and Development (PMED), Minority Association of Pre-medical Students (MAPS), Health Professions Recruitment Exposure (HPREP) and Youth Science Enrichment Program (YSEP).

Look for upcoming “Grand Rounds” on other SNMA programs, AMEC 2015 in New Orleans preview and much more. If you have an idea for “Grand Rounds,” email: marketing@snma.org.

October 4th is Founders Day! As a tribute, many of our chapters will celebrate that great occasion throughout the month of October with a Day of Service. Starting October 4, chapters will give back to their communities through service activities focused on nutrition, fitness, health screenings and testing, health fairs and community restoration.

Fifty years ago, the Student National Medical Association (SNMA) was created as a division of the National Medical Association (NMA) to actively support medical students and to encourage future physicians in their pursuit of medical careers. Seven years later, SNMA incorporated into its own legal entity. Since our founding by chapters at Howard University College of Medicine and Meharry Medical College, we have grown to more than 5,500 members with 144 chapters in 10 regions nationwide and in the Caribbean.

Our founders identified a real need to support medical students of color and that need still exists today. According to the recent “Diversity in Medical Education: Facts and Figures 2012” released by the Association of American Medical Colleges, in 1982 men surpassed women in applying to medical schools by more than 2 to 1. By 2011, Black women were 65.6% of applicants, but only 34.4% of applicants were Black men. In that same year, just 38.3% of Black applicants to medical schools – both men and women – were accepted. These statistics show that challenges still persist.

Today, SNMA remains firm to its mission. Our accomplishments are many and we are proud of the work that SNMA continues on behalf of its members. We love SNMA and hear often from members and alumni who say how much they love SNMA. As we celebrate Founders Day, we invite you to join the I <3SNMA campaign today and share why on Facebook and Twitter, #IHEARTSNMA!

Let us know about your chapter’s news and photos of the National Day of Service activities throughout October on our Facebook and Twitter accounts using #SNMA50th and #SNMAservice. Also, be sure to tag us to events that occur throughout the year or email: marketing@snma.org with your chapter spotlights. Starting October 6, you will also be able to stay connect with SNMA on Instagram @snma_official.

Look for upcoming “Grand Rounds” on the I <3 SNMA campaign, SNMA programs, AMEC 2015 in New Orleans preview and much more. If you have an idea for “Grand Rounds,” email: marketing@snma.org.